Awami League (AL) General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader said the country's minority communities cannot find a more reliable leader than Sheikh Hasina to ensure their equal footing in Bangladesh.

“We were by your side, we are now and will be in the future,” Quader declared, directing his words to the leaders of the Hindu community while visiting the Puja-mandap at Dhakeshwari Temple in Old Dhaka on Saturday.

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The AL leader also called for strengthening the hands of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to thwart communalism in the country.

"There is no one more reliable than Sheikh Hasina in this country for the followers of Sanatan religion (Hinduism). So, the prime minister's hands must be strengthened to thwart communalism," he said.

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Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is personally monitoring the situation to ensure Durga Puja passes peacefully. She briefed law enforcement agencies to discharge their duty with utmost importance.

“Previously some inauspicious events have troubled the Hindus much. We don't want to repeat this anymore. We hope Durga Puja, the largest religious festival of the Hindu community, will be completed peacefully," he added.

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Noting that the general election is knocking at the door, AL general secretary called for unity of all to establish a harmonious society, and stressed that this can only happen under a government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina again.

"Sheikh Hasina must be kept in power to keep this spirit alive," he said.

The AL's number two said power would only change hands through elections, and elections will be held according to the constitution.

Mocking BNP leaders for repeatedly announcing deadlines, Obaidul Quader questioned, "How many days will you give? I tell you, we don't have time. On 4th of November, the largest rally in history will be held in Dhaka. I invite you to the inauguration of Metrorail (on Nov. 4)."

Rounding off his assault on the BNP, he said they never implemented any megaproject, rather 'looted the country's wealth'.